Folate, Red Blood Cell (RBC) Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of folate (a B vitamin) stored in your red blood cells. Folate is important for cell growth and DNA production, and low levels may indicate poor nutrition or certain medical conditions.
["Your RBC folate levels help assess your body’s folate status and support overall health, especially during pregnancy or if you have certain blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96124-3
- Short code
- Fet FDL Prctl per est GA
- Synonyms
- Fet FDL Prctl per est GA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- per-estimated-gestational-age
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for folate deficiency, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unusual bleeding. It’s also used in screening or monitoring conditions like anemia, pregnancy, or certain cancers. Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production, so low levels can affect these processes.
What Does a Low or High Result Mean?
Low RBC folate levels may suggest poor diet, malabsorption issues (like celiac disease), alcohol use, or certain medications. High levels are less common but could indicate folate supplements or genetic factors. Neither extreme is typically harmful unless severe, but your provider will interpret results in the context of your health.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, usually in a clinic or lab. The blood is then analyzed to measure the folate content in your red blood cells using a specialized laboratory technique.
What Should You Do Before the Test?
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any supplements (like folic acid) or medications you’re taking. Avoid alcohol for a few days before the test if advised, as it may affect folate levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low RBC folate is often linked to folate deficiency, which can cause megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells) or neurological issues. During pregnancy, folate deficiency increases the risk of neural tube defects in the baby. Regular monitoring is important for patients with conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or those on certain medications (e.g., anticonvulsants).
Short name
RBC Folate
Frequently asked questions
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Can I Eat or Drink Anything Before the Blood Draw?
Does This Test Differ from Serum Folate?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy